One Cards Approved as Photo IDs for 2025-2026 Elections

UNCW One Cards have been approved as suitable photo IDs for elections through Dec. 31, 2026, by the North Carolina State Board of Elections.  

One Cards are in addition to the identification already permitted by state law for use by voters. The most common type of acceptable ID is a North Carolina driver’s license. 

“We are grateful that the decision has been made for UNCW One Cards to be included as an acceptable form of voter ID in North Carolina,” said Jaime Russell, director of student community engagement. “Our hope is that as many Seahawks as possible are exercising their right to vote, and this now offers more options and potential convenience when being asked to present a valid form of identification on election day.” 

Starting in July 2023, UNCW began issuing One Cards with a visible expiration date. The visible expiration date was added to meet the requirement under state law for voter identification and does not apply to access to UNCW buildings or accounts. Information about the UNCW One Card can be found on the One Card FAQ website.    

College students may register to vote if: 

• They are a U.S. citizen. 

• They have been residents of North Carolina and county for 30 days prior to the election. 

• They are at least 18 years old or will be 18 years old by the date of the general election. 

• They are not serving a felony sentence, including probation, post-release supervision or parole. 

Municipal elections will be held in September, October and November in North Carolina. The 2026 primary election will take place in March, with the general election in November. The deadline to register to vote is 25 days before Election Day. 

Students can find additional student voting resources at UNCW Votes. Visit the North Carolina Board of Elections website for additional information about voting and other forms of valid voter identification. You can also find voting information at the New Hanover County Board of Elections website.